Microsoft Edge On Windows 10 Blocks Malware Better Than Chrome Or Firefox
“Web browsers are the primary interface used to consume information and are among the most common entry point for attackers,” said Jason Brvenik, Chief Technology Officer for NSS Labs. “Enterprises are increasingly adopting a bifurcated browser strategy to reduce exposure to emerging threats."
According to NSS Labs' findings Edge blocked 92 percent of phishing attempts, and thwarted 100 percent of SEM attacks that were sent its way. According to the research firm, the SEM attack vectors that it screwed involved hijacked email accounts, tricks enticing users to download malware, social media hooks (via Twitter and Facebook) and false notifications relating to problems with a user's computer.
(Image Source: NSS Labs)
Chrome, which is far and away the most popular web browser on the planet, blocks 74 percent of phishing attacks and 88 percent of SEM attacks. Firefox was relegated to third place, racking up scores of 61 percent and 70 percent respectively.
NSS Labs also performed cross platform testing of Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome as well. For instance, Microsoft Edge was tested on both the more open Windows 10 and the more locked down Windows 10 S operating systems. Likewise, Google Chrome was tested on both Windows 10 and on Chrome OS. However, the were no significant differences in scoring that were discovered by using those respective browsers on the more restrictive Windows 10 S and Chrome OS.
For those that may think that NSS Labs is raking in dough from one company (i.e. Microsoft) to fund these studies, you can erase that thought from your mind. The firm says that it doesn't not receive funds from Microsoft or Google according to MSPowerUser.
Regardless of the test findings, which heavily favor Microsoft, there's little chance that it will do much to improve Microsoft Edge's standing with consumers. At last count, Microsoft Edge has 5.15 percent of the global browser market. On the other hand, Google Chrome is holding firm with 59.61 percent according to NetMarketShare as of September 2017.
